Ep 1. Big is Beautiful

In the season two premiere of The Aquarium, titled "Big is Beautiful," viewers are treated to a fascinating look at the care and keeping of some of the ocean's largest and most impressive creatures. From a 1,000-pound sea turtle to a 3,000-pound manta ray, the team at the Georgia Aquarium has their hands full as they work to provide these awe-inspiring creatures with the best possible living environment.

The episode kicks off with a look at Tank Hollow, the holding area where large animals are kept while their exhibit is being renovated. Here, we meet Tank, a 1,000-pound sea turtle who has come to the aquarium for treatment after being injured by a boat propeller. The team at the aquarium is working diligently to heal Tank's wounds and make him comfortable in his temporary home. They even enlist the help of a local brewery to create a custom batch of beer made from algae and sea lettuce, two of Tank's favorite foods. This beer is used to encourage Tank to eat and to help keep his digestive system running smoothly.

Next, we move on to the Ocean Voyager exhibit, home to the aquarium's most famous residents: four whale sharks, each over 20 feet long and weighing thousands of pounds. Here, we learn about the challenges of caring for such large animals, including ensuring that they are fed enough but not overfed, and designing the exhibit to allow them room to swim freely. We also get a close-up view of the aquarium's manta ray, which has a wingspan of over 11 feet and is fed by hand by one of the aquarium's animal care specialists.

As the episode progresses, we get a closer look at the various animals in the aquarium's care, including beluga whales, giant octopuses, and African penguins. We learn about their unique needs and the care required to ensure their health and well-being. We also witness the aquarium's ongoing efforts to conduct research and conservation programs aimed at protecting these animals in the wild.

Throughout the episode, we are also treated to a behind-the-scenes look at the aquarium's dedicated staff and their passion for their jobs. From biologists to veterinarians to animal care specialists, these individuals work tirelessly to ensure the aquarium's animals are healthy, happy, and thriving.

Overall, "Big is Beautiful" is an engaging and informative episode that offers a unique glimpse into the inner workings of one of the world's largest and most respected aquariums. Viewers are sure to come away with a deep appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the ocean's largest creatures, as well as a renewed sense of how important it is to protect these creatures for future generations.